The Michigan Department of Attorney General utilizes the services of Special Assistant Attorneys General from time to time when the unique circumstances of a particular case create the need for specialized services not currently available within the department.
The Michigan Attorney General has determined that a full and complete investigation of what happened within the Catholic Church is required. This investigation is and will continue to be independent, thorough, transparent, and prompt. My department and this investigation will find out who knew what, and when.
The Conviction Integrity Unit (the “CIU”) investigates claims of innocence to determine whether there is clear and convincing new evidence that the convicted defendant was not the person who committed the offense.
In Michigan, a victim is an individual who suffers direct or threatened physical, financial, or emotional harm as a result of the commission of a crime.
The laws regarding expungement of criminal offenses in Michigan changed in major ways in April of 2021. This page is designed to help applicants navigate their way through the new laws, help them determine if they are eligible to have convictions expunged, to answer frequently asked questions about the new laws, and to provide links for resources and assistance.
To investigate and prosecute hate crimes by following up on every credible tip and offer departmental resources to assist local and federal law enforcement partners in this effort.
The Michigan Attorney General is leading the fight against this horrific crime by prosecuting the state's first-ever criminal cases under state law banning human trafficking in Michigan. Victims of human trafficking are in bondage through force, fraud or coercion, for the purpose of sex or labor exploitation.
Knowing how to guard your personal information is your first line of defense against identity theft.
Michigan Attorney General's robocall initiative is leading several efforts to protect Michigan residents from the billion plus robocalls made to them every year.
Michigan's Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), MCL 15.231 et seq, provides that requesters can receive copies or make inspections of most public records of public bodies upon written request.
The Open Meetings Act (OMA) took effect January 1, 1977. In enacting the OMA, the Legislature promoted a new era in governmental accountability and fostered openness in government to enhance responsible decision making.1 Nothing in the OMA prohibits a public body from adopting an ordinance, resolution, rule, or charter provision that requires a greater degree of openness relative to public body meetings than the standards provided for in the OMA. 2
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August 28, 2025
LANSING – Today, Todd Bernstein, 67, of Birmingham, pled no contest to four counts of Insurance Fraud, each a 4-year felony, announced Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel. Bernstein, an insurance agent in Michigan, submitted misleading information on annuity suitability applications on behalf of his clients, who were over the age of 65, to conceal that new annuities were being purchased with proceeds from early surrendered annuities.
Attorney General Nessel filed charges against Bernstein in July. As part the plea agreement, Bernstein paid $107,918.13 in restitution and agreed to forfeit his insurance license. The Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS) assisted in this investigation.
“Insurance fraud, especially schemes targeted at our seniors, cannot and will not be tolerated,” Nessel said. “I am grateful to the Department of Insurance Financial Services and prosecutors in my office for their efforts in securing restitution for the victims and protecting Michigan consumers.”
“Insurance fraud increases costs for all Michiganders,” said DIFS Director Anita Fox. “DIFS will continue to work with the Attorney General to investigate and prosecute fraud to protect Michigan consumers. Michiganders who suspect fraud can report it online or by calling DIFS at 877-999-6442 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.”
Bernstein will be sentenced before Judge Mary Ellen Brennan in the 6th Circuit Court in Oakland County on October 16, 2025.
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